Solution Processes

The IAS Solutions Process is the methodology by which all customer problems are addressed. IAS has found that customers find it helpful and reassuring to understand the approach which IAS engineers use when developing a solution to their challenges. Moreover, as the customer is an integral part of the solutions process, IAS has found that the more informed the customer is as to the process, the more helpful they can be in contributing to the process, which can save time and money.

The eight steps to the IAS Solutions Process are detailed within the following pages. While originally developed during the early days of the company to provide consistency in the development of physical equipment, the process is applied today across all groups - Industrial Applications Group, Software Development Group and Technology Integration Group.

DISCOVER AND DEFINE: Document and define requirements through written statements of work and interviews with Production Engineers, Maintenance Personnel, and Machine operators. IAS believes communication is essential to the design process. The result is a system designed to actual needs, and the perceived needs which accompany a system specification IAS believes that a system should never be limited by present day understandings and therefore looks to anticipate future needs.

• Statement of work
• Process research
• Process flow outline
• Communication

DESIGN PROPOSAL: Collect all design input gathered during discovery. IAS reviews all data and information gathered in the Discover and Define stage. The customer receives a proposal which targets the most cost effective solution for their automation project.

• Current state of the art research
• Hardware and software design
• Process specificationFuture needs addressed

REFINE: Refine requirements. IAS provides guidance and recommends alternatives to tailor the system to the customer’s specific needs. Unforeseen process modifications such as allowed floor space can have a significant impact on the design.

• Compile information
• Implement changes

BUILD: Commence project physical build. IAS continues customer contact to provide valuable feedback and receive further input. The customer remains current on project status via weekly email progress reports (which may include digital images when applicable). Often, modifications can be made during the build phase which do not overly incur additional costs. Continuous feedback and contact is key to IAS, benefiting both IAS and its customers.

• Commence physical build
• Develop schematics
• Design software
• Design and implement HMI program
• Documentation and device labeling

TEST: Ensure the client's functional and technical criteria have been exceeded. IAS shall invoke test programs that allow the machine to auto cycle for 24 hours. The data for any faults is logged and displayed to pinpoint any areas that could cause problems for the customer when the machine is in full production. These faults are addressed and corrected prior to machine run-off. The testing criteria is outlined by the customer and IAS imposes additional test procedures to fully exercise the machine under the conditions closely matching the machine's final environment.

• Hardware wiring prove-out
• Individual component configuration and documentation
• Software optimization
• Simulation

COMMISSION: Install the system with operator, maintenance, and supervisor training. The installation method may vary and is based on customer preferences. The machine is commissioned with IAS personnel on-site to properly review installation and facilitate any necessary changes.

• Installation wiring prove-out
• Simulation (dry run)
• Operator and maintenance personnel training
• Refining of control parameters per in-situ operation
• Documentation

REVIEW AND REFINE: Implement system improvements based on evolving customer needs. IAS' equipment control systems are centered around custom software, individually designed for each piece of equipment. The machine is thus highly configurable though software modifications, thus reducing the chance of any otherwise requisite major hardware upgrades.

• Software modifications
• HMI changes
• Documentation

SUPPORT: Provide long term support. IAS believes that this demonstrates both its commitment to the customer and confidence in IAS solutions. All IAS machines are equipped with remote communication capabilities for prompt interrogation and troubleshooting. IAS provides most simple support at no charge for the lifetime of the equipment.

• Phone support
• On-site support

Contact us to learn more about how we can apply our solutions process to assist in your automation needs.